The Chaplain's Corner




Guest blogger, Chaplain Paul, is one of the most effective chaplains in America today. He is an emergency responder to every situation.

Hey, this is the Chaplain again.

I have a question; which would you rather have for Christmas, presents or presence?

On a human level, would you rather have lots of special gifts or lots of special people? The advertisers tell us; we need lots of fancy packages under the tree. We need to buy all the latest toys and gadgets for our family and friends. But, isn’t it more important to just be with the special people in your life?

Wouldn’t this Christmas be better if you could just enjoy being with those you love and not be worried about what to buy?

Spiritually we have the same alternatives. We can focus on His gifts – His presents, or we can seek His company, His companionship His presence. There is a lot of preaching today about asking God for His gifts. And He is a good God that enjoys blessing us. But I wonder if it would please Him more if we just said

“Lord, I just want more of you, more of your presence in my life, more intimate fellowship between us. Lord, I just want you.”

I have a feeling that is what He longs to hear us say.

So, what do you want for Christmas, presents or presence?